Savor each spoonful of Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup, a heartwarming blend of tender chicken chunks and plump rice grains enveloped in a velvety broth. Each bite is infused with herbs that whisper of home and comfort. This soup’s silky texture and soothing warmth make it a perfect dish to unwind after a long day.
Nothing beats the comfort of a hot bowl of soup on a chilly day, especially if it’s Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup. I remember huddling in the kitchen with my family, waiting as the delightful aroma filled our home, bringing an instant feeling of warmth and togetherness.
However, crafting such a perfect bowl can sometimes seem daunting—achieving that ideal creaminess and balancing the right flavors. Fear not, though! You can recreate this classic comfort at home by following a few simple steps.
Let me guide you through making this soul-satisfying dish that turns an ordinary evening into a cherished family memory.
What Is Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup?
Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup is a comforting dish that combines succulent chicken pieces and tender rice in a rich, creamy broth. It’s often enhanced with a medley of vegetables like carrots and celery, and seasoned with herbs like thyme and parsley to add depth and warmth to the flavor.Â
This soup is not just a meal but a soothing remedy for chilly days or when you’re under the weather. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for a gathering. Each bowl offers a delightful experience that fills the stomach and warms the heart.
Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?
- Chicken For a different protein option, substitute chicken with shredded turkey or diced ham, adding unique flavors and textures to the soup.
- Rice For a different grain base, use quinoa, barley, or farro instead of rice, introducing varied textures and nutritional benefits.
- Vegetables To enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional profile, substitute traditional carrots and celery with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Broth Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version of the soup, maintaining a rich taste without meat.
- Cream For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream, which adds a subtle, unique flavor to the soup.
- Herbs Instead of parsley, try different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or dill, to give the soup a new and aromatic flavor profile.
- Mushrooms Add mushrooms such as cremini or shiitake for an earthy depth, enhancing the soup’s heartiness and flavor complexity.
Recipe Directions
Prepare The Soup Base
- In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, and water. Place over medium heat and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, stir in the rice (reserve the seasoning packet). Cover the pot and remove it from heat.
Make The Roux
- In a small bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the seasoning packet until the mixture is bubbly.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring continuously to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the cream, a little at a time, until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Combine And Cook
- Stir the flour and cream mixture into the broth and rice in a large pot.
- Cook over medium heat until the soup is heated through, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors!
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Herbaceous Twist: Enhance your dish with the vibrant flavors of fresh dill or tarragon, adding a delightful burst of herbal essence.
- Spicy Kick: Introduce a tantalizing heat to your meal with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or the zing of diced jalapeños.
- Vegetable Boost: Elevate your dish’s nutritional profile and visual appeal by gently folding in spinach, kale, or sweet peas during the final cooking stages.
- Cheesy Delight: Create a rich and satisfying experience by blending in generous amounts of grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy indulgence.
- Seafood Version: Transport your taste buds to the coast by substituting chicken with succulent shrimp or delicate crab meat, infusing your dish with savory seafood flavors.
Add-ons
- Protein Options: Add cooked white beans, chickpeas, or even tofu for extra protein.
- Grains Substitute: Swap rice for other grains like quinoa or barley for a different texture.
- Cream Substitutes: Use coconut milk or a blend of silken tofu and almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Variations
- Crunchy Croutons: Elevate your dish with the satisfying crunch of homemade garlic croutons. These golden nuggets add texture and infuse each bite with savory garlic goodness.
- Fresh Herbs: Brighten your meal by garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley, chives, or scallions. These vibrant herbs bring a refreshing and aromatic touch to your dish.
- Sour Cream or Yogurt: Enhance the flavor profile with creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt. This addition provides a tangy contrast and adds a smooth and indulgent texture.
- Lemon Zest: Sprinkling delicate lemon zest over your dish will introduce a burst of citrusy freshness. This subtle yet vibrant accent lifts the flavors and adds a zesty twist to each bite.
- Bacon Bits: Delight your taste buds with the smoky richness of crispy bacon bits. These savory morsels bring a satisfying crunch and a depth of flavor that complements a variety of dishes.
Can I Make Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Slow Cooker Method
- Ingredients Preparation: Combine chicken, broth, water, rice (reserve the seasoning packet), and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cooking: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken and rice are cooked through.
- Making the Roux: About 30 minutes before serving, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the seasoning packet until bubbly. Gradually add the flour, salt, and pepper mixture, stirring continuously to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the cream until fully incorporated and smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Combining: Stir the roux into the slow cooker and cook on low for another 20-30 minutes until heated through and thickened.
- Serving: Serve hot and enjoy!
Instant Pot Method
- Sautéing: Turn on the sauté function. Melt butter in the Instant Pot. Stir in the seasoning packet until bubbly. Add the flour, salt, and pepper mixture, stirring continuously to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the cream until fully incorporated and smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Combining Ingredients: Add the chicken, broth, water, rice (reserve the seasoning packet), and vegetables to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure Cooking: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure.
- Finishing: Open the lid and stir the soup to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Serving: Serve hot and enjoy!
Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
Depending on your preference and available time, you can use either store-bought or homemade broth for Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup. Here are some considerations for each option:
Store-Bought Broth
Advantages
- Convenience: Quick and easy to use, saving you time and effort.
- Consistency: Offers a consistent flavor, which can be beneficial if you’re in a hurry.
Considerations
- Flavor: Choose a high-quality brand with a rich flavor. Low-sodium options give you more control over the seasoning.
- Additions: You might need to enhance the flavor with additional herbs, spices, or a splash of lemon juice.
Homemade Broth
Advantages
- Flavor: Provides a richer, more complex flavor tailored to your taste.
- Control: You can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives or excess sodium.
Considerations
- Time: Requires more time and effort to prepare, including simmering and straining.
- Ingredients: You’ll need chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs to make a flavorful broth.
How To Serve?
- Warm Bowls: To keep the soup hot longer, pre-warm the bowls by rinsing them with hot water or placing them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
- Ladle Generously: Use a ladle to ensure each serving gets a good mix of chicken, rice, and vegetables.
- Garnish Beautifully: To add color and flavor, top each bowl with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve with Bread: Offer crusty bread or warm rolls on the side to complement the soup and provide a satisfying crunch.
- Accompany with Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pair well and balances the soup’s richness.
- Individual Toppings: Provide small bowls of extra toppings, such as croutons, bacon bits, or chopped green onions, so guests can customize their bowls.
- Keep It Hot: If serving buffet-style, keep the soup hot in a slow cooker or chafing dish to maintain its temperature throughout the meal.
Perfect Side DishesÂ
- Garlic Bread: Enjoy crunchy, soft garlic bread alongside creamy soup for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
- Simple Green Salad: Refresh with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and light vinaigrette, offering a crisp complement to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: Tangy Caesar salad pairs richly with creamy soup, combining savory flavors for a satisfying dining experience.
- Crusty Bread Rolls: Warm, crusty rolls are ideal for dipping into a creamy soup, providing a comforting and flavorful addition to your meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steam broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a healthy, colorful side that perfectly complements creamy soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread offers comforting satisfaction alongside creamy soup, adding a delightful twist to your meal.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Indulge in a classic grilled cheese, adding cheesy goodness and a satisfying crunch to your creamy soup dining experience.
Storage & Make Ahead
Here are some tips for storing and making Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup ahead of time:
Storage Tips
- Cool Properly: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent condensation and spoilage.
- Airtight Containers: Store the soup in airtight containers to keep it fresh and prevent odors from affecting other foods in the fridge.
- Refrigeration: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Labeling: Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Defrosting: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Make Ahead Tips
- Batch Cooking: Make a large batch of soup and portion it into smaller containers for easy meals throughout the week.
- Prep Ingredients: Chop vegetables, cook chicken, and measure out rice and seasonings in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Roux Preparation: Prepare the roux (butter, flour, and cream mixture) ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before adding to the soup.
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: Utilize a slow cooker or Instant Pot to make the soup with minimal hands-on time, perfect for busy days.
- Double the Recipe: When you have time, double the recipe and freeze half for a convenient future meal.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of broth or milk.
- Avoid Overcooking: When making ahead, slightly undercook the rice and vegetables. They will soften further upon reheating, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- Add Fresh Ingredients Last: If fresh herbs or delicate ingredients are added, add them after reheating to maintain their vibrant flavor and texture.
What Can Be Done With Leftover Soup?Â
- Casserole Base: Use the leftover soup as a base for a casserole. Mix with cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting dish.
- Rice Bake: Combine the soup with extra rice and bake it as a creamy rice bake, adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping for texture.
- Pie Filling: Use the soup as a filling for a savory pot pie. Add a pie crust or biscuit topping and bake until golden and delicious.
- Stuffed Vegetables: Mix the soup with cooked quinoa or rice and stuff bell peppers or zucchini. Bake until the vegetables are tender for a nutritious meal.
- Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup slightly and toss it with cooked pasta for a creamy, flavorful sauce, adding vegetables or protein as desired.
- Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with the leftover soup for a rich and creamy twist on a classic side dish.
- Dip: Thick the soup and serve it as a dip with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips, creating a savory and hearty appetizer.
Tips
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables First: Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the soup enhances their flavors.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and other seasonings gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
- Choose the Right Rice: Use long-grain rice for a firmer texture or arborio rice for a creamier consistency. Rinse the rice before adding it to reduce starchiness.
- Add Cream Slowly: When making the roux, add the cream slowly while continuously whisking to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until it’s done to prevent it from becoming dry and tough. If using pre-cooked chicken, add it towards the end to heat through.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme towards the end of cooking for a fresh flavor.
![Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe - A Soul Satisfying Meal](https://soupchick.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23074903/Creamy-Chicken-Rice-Soup-2-800x530.webp)
Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe – A Soul Satisfying Meal
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalCreamy Chicken & Rice Soup is a comforting blend of tender chicken, plump rice, and fresh vegetables in a rich, velvety broth. This hearty soup offers warmth and nourishment with every spoonful, perfect for chilly days or a soothing meal. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
2 2 Cooked, boneless chicken breast halves, shredded
4 Cups 4 Chicken broth
2 Cups 2 Water
4.5 ounces (1 package) 4.5 Quick cooking long grain and wild rice (with seasoning packet)
¾ Cups ¾ All-purpose flour
½ Tsp ½ Salt
½ Tsp ½ Ground black pepper
½ Cup ½ Butter
2 Cups 2 Heavy cream
Step-By-Step Directions
- Prepare the Soup Base
- Combine Liquids: In a large pot, combine 4 cups chicken broth and 2 cups water.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add Rice: Once boiling, stir in the package of quick-cooking long grain and wild rice (reserve the seasoning packet). Cover the pot and remove it from heat.
- Make the Roux
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine ¾ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the contents of the reserved seasoning packet until the mixture is bubbly.
- Form Roux: Reduce heat to low, then gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring continuously to form a roux.
- Add Cream: Slowly whisk in 2 cups heavy cream, a little at a time, until fully incorporated and smooth. Cook the mixture until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine and Cook
- Mix Roux with Broth: In a large pot, stir the thickened flour and cream mixture (roux) into the broth and rice.
- Heat Through: Cook the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Add Chicken
- Combine Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken breast halves.
- Heat Chicken: Continue to cook the soup over medium heat until the chicken is heated and the flavors melded for about 5 more minutes.
- Serve
- Ladle Soup: Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Optional Garnishes: Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup.
- Equipment List
- Large Pot
- Medium Saucepan
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Ladle
- Whisk
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Mixing Bowls
- Airtight Storage Containers
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Rinse rice before adding to reduce starchiness.
- Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding salt and pepper gradually.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor.
Nutrition Table
![Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup 11](https://soupchick.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23074814/Creamy-Chicken-Rice-Soup-11-566x1024.webp)